9asaman قسما
Tunisian Derja · expression
“9asaman” (قسما) is an expression in Tunisian Derja meaning I swear (before God).
Meanings
- I swear (before God)
Usage
"Qasaman" is almost always used in the phrase "qasaman billah", "I swear by God". It is placed at the start or in the middle of a sentence to reinforce a statement, an expression of indignation or a compliment. It is more solemn and emphatic than a simple "wallah". It is very common in online comments and heated discussions. On its own it is hardly used. It is an oath, so avoid using it lightly in a serious context.
Example
قسما بالله ما نعرفش شنوة صار.
9asaman billah ma na3rafch chnowa sar.
“I swear by God I don't know what happened.”
How to write it in Latin letters
In Arabizi, Darija written in Latin letters, you will find “9asaman” but also “kasaman” and “qasaman”. No spelling is official: people write the sounds as they hear them.
Digits stand in for Arabic letters that have no Latin equivalent: 9 is qaf (ق), a k pronounced at the back of the throat.